Evaluation of capabilities of the nanoindentation test in the determination of flow stress characteristics of the matrix material in porous sinters

Abstract Herein, we evaluate the nanoindentation test capabilities in the determination of flow stress characteristics of the matrix material in porous sinters. The Distaloy AB sample with 15% porosity after the sintering operation is selected as a case study for the investigation. 2D and 3D imaging techniques are employed first to highlight difficulties in identifying reliable nano hardness measurement zones for further properties evaluation. Then, nanoindentation test results are acquired with Berkovich tip pressed under various loads at different locations in the sample. Systematic indentations in the quartz sample are used as a cleaning procedure to minimize the effect of the possible build-up around the indenter tip. The representative indentation load range is selected based on the extracted material characteristics. With that, the stress–strain response of the sinter matrix material is identified. The reliability of the determined flow stress curve is confirmed with the use of conical nanoindentation measurement results and finite element simulations. Obtained results show that it is possible to calculate reliable flow stress characteristics of the matrix in the porous samples, with the assumption that experiments under various loading conditions and from various locations in the matrix are performed. It is also pointed out that various indentation loads should be used to eliminate the influence of the pile-up or scale effects that affect the overall material response.